2004 Kawasaki VN2000

In the cruiser category bigger is definitely better,
and the super-macho new VN2000 is the largest displacement
V-Twin in the world. This high-powered flagship machine
is unlike anything in the cruiser category and completely
redefines Kawasaki's brand DNA in this important market.
Complementing the engine's massive size and impressive
power output is an attractive style that mixes modern
and traditional design elements in a streamlined,
highly integrated package. Centrepiece of the VN2000's
remarkable styling is the streamlined headlight nacelle
enclosing a "gatling" projector-beam headlamp.

Engine displacement is an incredible 2,053 cm3,
making the VN2000 the largest displacement production
V-Twin in history. Not only does this muscular power
plant produce massive amounts of torque and horsepower,
it is also one of the best-looking VTwin engines in
the world, with the huge gracefully tapered cylinders
attractively accentuated by the long pushrod tubes
and curvaceously shaped engine covers.

The "stretched" low-and-long chassis is just as
impressive. As the top model in Kawasaki's cruiser
line-up, every detail expresses the high quality,
superb comfort and feeling of trustworthiness customers
expect from a flagship machine.

The VN2000's key sales features can be summarised
as follows:

World's Largest V-Twin Engine - As good looking
as it is powerful and smooth, the liquid-cooled,
OHV, 2,053 cm3 V-Twin engine splays its attractively
tapered cylinders at 52 degrees. This massive power
plant is equipped with an automotive-style fuel
injection system and produces category-shattering
levels of torque and an incredible power feel, out-accelerating
competing cruisers with ease. In addition to the
stimulating aural sensation from the twin slash-cut
mufflers, the VN2000's engine produces a feel-good
VTwin heartbeat unmatched by any other cruiser on
the market today.

Styling That Demands Respect - The VN2000's masculine
styling with stretched fuel tank and thin, tank-mounted
speedometer redefines the classic cruiser image
while still remaining true to the cruiser tradition.
This concept is also carried through to the rear
frame, which looks like a custom rigid but is actually
a modern single-shock layout.

The use of dual throttle valves - a primary throttle
valve directly operated by the rider and a sub-valve
operated by electric motor - mitigates sudden torque
increases and smoothes out the power delivery.

4-valve heads use centrally located irridium plugs
fired by high-voltage coils for high combustion
efficiency.

Twin chain-driven cams operate the pushrods that
run along the exterior of the cylinders on the right
side of the engine.

Hidden oil lines to the cylinder head balance
the appearance of the left side of the engine.

Lightweight forged "slipper" pistons, similar
to those found in high-performance engines, with
short skirts help reduce vibration. Compression
is 9.5:1.

Dual primary balancers harmonise primary vibration.
Secondary vibration is minimised with the lightweight
pistons and rods while the good vibrations are left
for the rider to enjoy.

A rugged 5-speed transmission delivers the reliability
needed for VN2000's massive torque output. A gear
position sensor signals the ECU, ensuring that ignition
timing and fuel supply is ideal for the chosen gear
and speed range.

Belt final drive is quiet and efficient. Wide
belt is very durable.

Following the overall design of the VN2000, the
engine's dimensions are also long and low. Although
stroke is 33 mm longer than that of the VN1500 engines,
the VN2000 power plant is only 2 mm taller.

The crankcase's "wrinkle black" coating juxtaposes
nicely with the many chromed engine covers.

Dual slash-cut mufflers are joined with two balance
pipes for high efficiency and a great sound. The
high-quality chrome finish looks superb.

The VN2000's signature feature is the stunning
streamlined headlight nacelle housing a "gatling"
projector-beam headlamp. A conventional bulb located
below the three projector lamps is used for the
high beam.

Compared to a standard reflector-type headlamp,
the triple-projector beam offers more evenly distributed
illumination, for greater confidence when riding
at night.

When the high beam is on, all four lighting elements
are illuminated for increased brightness.

Large, single-bulb tail lamp uses a bright, Fiflex
reflector for high visibility. Screwless attachment
further enhances the high quality of the beautifully
shaped lens.

Big, stretched and seamless, the voluptuous fuel
tank has the design and finish customers expect
of a flagship machine.

Hydraulic valve lash adjusters are located on
the rocker arms, and high-quality SKD tappet material
is used for low weight and high durability.

Plated cylinders are long wearing and offer excellent
heat dispersion. The coolant jacket extends only
part way down the cylinders, giving the cylinders
an attractively tapered shape with a small cylinder
base area. Finning matching that of the cylinder
heads is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

Piston-cooling oil jets are used to keep piston
temperature under control.

Large one-piece engine cases house the eleven
shafts including the cams. The oil and water pumps
are built into the cases, reducing the number of
parts. The cases are rigidly mounted in the frame,
making the engine a stressed member and increasing
chassis rigidity.

Large tapered roller bearings are used in the
steering head for high stability and high chassis
rigidity.

The use of castings around the steering head and
forged parts around the swingarm pivot results in
a clean design, with less welding and very high
rigidity.

Ignition switch allows on-position key removal,
preventing key bunches from damaging the top of
the headlight nacelle's lustrous chrome finish while
the bike is in operation. Turning the ignition switch
collar to the "off" or the "park" position (illuminating
the tail lamp) turns the engine off and necessitates
re-insertion of the key to restart.

Self-cancelling turn signals.

The VN2000 is conveniently designed to allow the
oil level to be checked while sitting on the bike
using a dipstick attached to the oil cap.

Convenient helmet lock located on the left side.

A variety of optional accessories will allow customers
to customise the VN2000 to suit their personalities
and riding styles. Windshields (in a variety of
sizes), a backrest with rack, thicker rear seat,
passenger footboards, side bags, engine guards,
and a light bar are just some of the options being
planned.

The specifications mentioned here apply to and
have been achieved by production models under standard
operating conditions. We intend only to give a fair
description of the vehicle and its performance capabilities
but these specifications may not apply to every
machine supplied for sale. Kawasaki Heavy Industries,
Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications
without prior notice. Equipment illustrated and
specifications may vary to meet individual markets.
Available colours may vary by market.